ADDER'S TONGUE a.k.a Dog's Tooth Violet

(Erythronium Americanum)

Found in damp open woodlands.

FLOWER: A lily like flower appearing in early spring. Bright yellow sometimes tinged with purple and with tiny dots within at the base.

PART USED: Fresh leaves and bulbs (Some say must be used fresh, although some suggest using the dried herb).

MEDICINAL:
An emetic in doses of 25 to 30 grains.

The fresh leaves are emollient and possess anti-scrofulous properties.

Used in poultice form to swellings, tumors, and scrofulous ulcers.

Has been used internally in cases of dropsy and vomiting as an infusion in wineglass doses.

Used by Native Americans for breast complaints.

Root and herb used for gout.

Reported to be useful for tuberculosis involving diseased glands, scurvy, hiccups, dropsy, bleeding at the mouth or nose (the dried powdered herb is applied as a styptic).

Combined with Equisetum hyemale for conditions of bleeding, and ulcers of the breast and bowel or for tumors and inflammations.

The fresh root and leaves simmered in milk said to be helpful in dropsy, also for hiccups and bleeding from the lower bowels.

Also used is the juice of the plant infused in apple cider.

It is reputed that the plant boiled in oil is a panacea for wounds and inflammations.

DOSE: TRADITIONAL DOSAGES FOR PROFESSIONAL NOTE ONLY
All others buy commercial preparations and follow directions carefully.

The infusion is made with 1 tsp of leaves or 2 tsps root to 1 C. water and taken at the rate of 1 C. per day. Also, the juice of the plant mixed with apple cider.

Poultice = The crushed leaves or root are simmered in milk to the proper consistency.

OTHER:
Used for its nutritive value when dried. Bulbs historically reported to have been eaten by the Winnebago indians.